Nigeria win Cup of Nations

A 40th minute goal by the aptly named Sunday Mba sealed Africa Cup of Nations final victory for Nigeria.

That goal just before the half-time break was enough to see off the brave resistence of Burkina Faso, ranked a lowly 92nd in the world rankings before the tournament.

At the final whistle he Nigeria players, in true championship-winning fashion, were running around the pitch carrying their country's flag. In contrast, Burkina Faso's Paul Koulibaly is in tears.

Nigeria made the breakthrough just before half-time when Mba clipped the ball over Mohamed Koffi and then volleyed into the far corner.

Thereafter Nigeria had several opportunities to put the match to bed. Chelsea's Victor Moses was among those that failed to take their chances. The pre-match favourites were nearly to pay for their wastefulness.

With just minutes to go Burkina Faso almost equalised when Wilfried Sanou forced a fingertip save from goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama.

But the Super Eagles managed to hold on and claim their third Cup of Nations success.
Nigeria's John Obi Mikel was named player of the final while Burkina Faso's Jonathan Pitroipa was deemd player of the tournament.

Posted on: 10/02/2013 08:49 PM

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